Question:
Less than 2 weeks away........

Less than two weeks away and insurance now calls to tell me they have an in network doctor. I submitted letter for approval in May 1999 with an out-of-network doctor (none in- network.) Finally was approved 12-1-99. Surgery was scheduled for 2-8-00. On 1-27-00 my insurance calls to tell me that they now have an in-network doctor so they will not cover the out-of-network doctor at in-network rates which adds up to about $5000 more in out-of-pocket expenses. I do not have this kind of money laying around. The insurance did state that this in-netowrk Dr. was great and he was worried about me using this other Dr. and hospital that he has seen patients that had to be transferred out of that hospital. Well I could take this two ways. Maybe this is God putting his hand to work showing that I needed to see this new Dr. Also I now have a choise on VGB (which I have heard many horror stories lately) or RYN. I now have an appointment with Dr. Moody on Feb. 9th. One day after my surgery would have taken place. This is the 1st tome I have posted even though I have been part of the mailing list for over a year. Thanks for listening.    — Judith K. (posted on January 28, 2000)

January 28, 2000
Hey Judith: I can understand your frustration. The emotional highs and lows associated with waiting for surgery and the decision as to the surgeon and the type of surgery are a terrible burdon. It seems as though you have no choice but to talk to the new doc. I would be wary of him only if he really is talking out of turn of another doc. Maybe it is the ins. company that is. I would ask him a lot of questions especially regarding how many he has done and the successes and failures. Maybe you can talk to some patients. I did not have a choice at all of surgeons. I did not especially like mine at first, but the more I learned about him and his ability really helped me relax. I, personally would also want the RNY if given the choice. The info. on this site alone supports that. Post a question or look up the new surgeon here. Maybe you will find someone who has used him. Good luck with your decision.
   — Dot W.

January 28, 2000
Hi Judith: What a roller coaster! My advice to you would be to cancel the procedure you have scheduled and go to the appointment with the new doctor. Make your decision on the doctor and procedure then. You've waited this long, and while it's frustrating to wait longer, it's not a good idea to make a decision without first having all the information. The only way you'll get that is to see the other doctor. Maybe there are people on this site who can give you some insight into both of the surgeons. As for the procedures, I know that statistically the VBG is not as successful as the RNY when it comes to weight loss and maintaining it. Good luck with your decision. Try and be patient! It's hard, isn't it? Jaye Carl, open proximal RNY 7-29-99, 90 pounds gone forever!
   — Jaye C.

January 29, 2000
I am confused - is Dr. Moody the new dr or the old one?? He will not do a VBG he only does small pouch gastric bypass which is closer to an RNY. He did mine on the 18th of January. If you have questions - email me and I will get right back to you! Kathy
   — Kathy W.

February 1, 2000
God truly does work in mysterious ways. Count this as a blessing. It would be worth the wait of a few extra weeks or months to not have to pay $5,000.00. Also them you will have a Dr. in system that can take care of you and will know you. I feel that you are better off in that way. Good Luck and God Bless. I had an open RNY 22mo. ago and am down 155-160#. Jan Terry
   — Jan T.